US Revokes Visas of Brazilian Judge and Allies Over Bolsonaro Prosecution

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio revoked visas for Brazilian Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes and his allies, citing a "political witch hunt" targeting former President Jair Bolsonaro. The decision came after the court ordered police to search Bolsonaro's home and attach an electronic monitor to his ankle. Rubio condemned the court's actions as politically motivated repression and stated that the US will hold accountable foreign nationals responsible for censorship of protected expression.

The United States has revoked visas for Brazilian Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes and his allies, following a series of court orders targeting former President Jair Bolsonaro. The move, announced by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, escalates a diplomatic dispute between the two nations over Bolsonaro's prosecution.

Rubio cited concerns over what he called a "political witch hunt" against Bolsonaro, who is currently on trial for alleged involvement in a coup to overturn the 2022 election results. The court orders, issued by Judge de Moraes, include restrictions on Bolsonaro's movement and communications, such as wearing an electronic ankle monitor and prohibiting social media use and contact with foreign officials.

The visa revocations are part of a broader U.S. strategy to hold foreign nationals accountable for censorship of protected expression. Rubio's statement noted that the actions against Bolsonaro extend beyond Brazil's borders, targeting Americans as well. The decision comes at a high point in relations between Washington and Brasilia, with the U.S. imposing additional tariffs on Brazilian goods in support of Bolsonaro.

The move has significant implications for Brazilian conservative and dissident leaders, who have long criticized the Supreme Court's actions against freedom of expression. The sanctions against Judge de Moraes represent a historic moment for these groups, who see the U.S. action as a show of support for their cause.

The visa restrictions are implemented under Section 212(a)(3)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, which allows the U.S. to deny visas to individuals deemed to be a threat to national security or public safety.

References:
[1] https://nypost.com/2025/07/18/world-news/us-revokes-visas-of-brazilian-justices-after-its-top-court-cracks-down-on-ex-president-bolsonaro/
[2] https://voz.us/en/world/250719/27056/us-sanctions-and-withdraws-visa-from-brazilian-judge-alexandre-moraes-and-his-family-for-persecution-of-bolsonaro.html
[3] https://www.newsweek.com/trump-admin-revokes-visas-brazilian-judges-bolsonaro-prosecution-2101073